Betsy Wetsy
Betsy Wetsy was a "drink-and-wet" doll originally issued by the Ideal Toy Company of New York in 1934.[1] It was one of the most popular dolls of its kind in the Post–World War II baby boom era.[2]
| Type | Drink-and-wet doll |
|---|---|
| Company | Ideal Toy Company |
| Country | United States |
| Availability | 1934–1980s |
| Features | "Wetting" Sleep eyes Jointed limbs |
Named for the daughter of Abraham Katz, the head of the company,[2] the doll's special feature was simulating urination after a fluid was poured into her open mouth.[1] Betsy Wetsy was also one of the first major dolls to be produced in African American versions.[1]
Description
Betsy Wetsy was produced with either molded plastic hair, karakul wigs, or brown, blonde, or red plugged hair. It had blue sleep eyes with eyelashes and its arms and legs were jointed. A layette, baby bottles, a plastic bath tub, and other accessories were available.[3]
History
Effanbee had previously manufactured a similar doll, "Dy-dee," and a patent infringement lawsuit resulted.[2] The judge ruled that drinking and urinating are natural movements and cannot be patented.[2]
The doll was made in several sizes in the 1940s. It saw a spike in popularity in the 1950s.[1]
A made-in-China version was issued in the late 1980s by Ideal to boost sales, but the doll never reached the success of the original.[2]
Other media
Film
A live-action film adaptation produced by Mattel Films and Aggregate Films was announced in January 2022.[4]
Legacy
In 2003, the Toy Industry Association named Betsy Wetsy to its Century of Toys List, a compilation commemorating the 100 most memorable and most creative toys of the 20th century.[5]
References
- Waggoner, Susan. Under the Tree: the Toys and Treats That Made Christmas Special, 1930-1970. Stewart, Tabori & Chang, 2007.
- Izen, Judith (2005). Ideal Dolls: Identification and Values. Collector Books. Archived from the original on 2012-08-25. Retrieved 2011-12-27.
- Eash, Barbara J. (n.d.), "What's it Worth: 1960s Betsy Wetsy Doll", Country Woman Magazine, Reiman Media Group, archived from the original on 2013-01-20, retrieved 6 April 2012
- Donnelly, Matt (2022-01-28). "Barbie and Beyond: How Mattel Studios Executive Robbie Brenner Brings Beloved Toys to Screen". Variety. Retrieved 2022-04-24.
- "Toy Industry Association Announces Its Century of Toys List", Business Wire, 21 January 2003, archived from the original on 19 March 2008, retrieved 31 October 2008